Losing a loved one needlessly is never an easy thing to go through, but it’s even more difficult when it happens because of another person or entity.
While no amount of money can bring back the person you love, the compensation from a wrongful death lawsuit can help alleviate some of the financial stress that resulted from the death.
Keep reading to learn who is awarded the money from a wrongful death lawsuit in Illinois.
Settlement Distribution
Each state has its own laws regarding who may be awarded compensation from a wrongful death suit.
According to the Illinois General Assembly, 740 Illinois Compiled Statutes (ILCS) 180/, the rules for wrongful death settlement distribution are as follows:
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
The only person who may file a wrongful death lawsuit in Illinois is the decedent’s personal representative.
The personal representative is nominated by the decedent in their will. This person must be a United States resident, but need not be an Illinois resident. The court must approve and appoint a personal representative.
Where the Settlement Will Be Distributed
The surviving spouse and/or next of kin—depending upon their level of dependency on the decedent—will receive the damages from a wrongful death suit.
You Can Count on Us
If you’ve lost a loved one due to the careless or reckless actions of another, you may be entitled to compensation. While no amount of money truly provides justice for the loss of your family member, the compensation you receive from a settlement will help you get your life back in order by providing funding for the aftermath of the death. Don’t hesitate to contact our office with your case right away to see if we can help.
Call the Naperville lawyers at Chute, O’Malley, Knobloch & Turcy, LLC today at (773) 906-4063 to speak with an attorney about your case.